Today is my dad’s birthday. It’s not his centenary—that was quite a while ago. Although it has been well over a half century since he died, I still miss him, particularly since he and I were just beginning to develop a mature relationship when he died.
I’ve written quite a bit about him over the years. Phi Beta Kappa, Summa cum laude, editor of the college newspaper in his senior year. Graduated from law school, law review, graduated with a JD (somewhat unusual all those years ago). Spent a year in Europe (1937-1938!). Arrested as a spy in Serbia. Was in Munich on November 9, 1938—left Europe shortly thereafter.
It was still the Depression so he had some difficulty getting a job as a lawyer when he returned from Europe. Worked as an insurance adjuster. Tried unsucessfully to join the military during World War II although the OSS asked him to join after the war. Got a job with the (then) biggest law firm in St. Louis as an associate. The firm dissolved in scandal and he went off on his own. Taught law school
He was the smartest, wisest, hardest-working, most decent man I’ve ever known.
That is a really nice post Dave and a heart warming read. Thank you for sharing.